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Parkrun Celebrates Two Years Of Fitness And Fun

Two years ago, Mansfield became just the eighth location in the United States for the internationally recognized weekly FREE 5K timed run known as parkrun. This past Saturday, parkrun celebrated that anniversary.

Sponsored by the City of Mansfield Parks Department, the Richland County Park District (B&O Trail), and Richland Public Health’s Creating Healthy Communities grant, parkrun is not a race but a fitness and recreation opportunity for all ages.

Mansfield OH parkrun is a free weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 9:00am (October through April) and 8:00 AM (May through September) in North Lake Park in Mansfield. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether for fun or as part of a training plan. It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain.

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there. Whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own “running journey” or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us.

Here are key points for parkun as shared by organizers:

What is Mansfield OH parkrun? It is a 5km run – it’s you against the clock.

When is it? Every Saturday at 9:00 AM (October through April); 8:00 AM (May through September).

Where is it? The event takes place at North Lake Park in Mansfield. The course is run entirely on asphalt paths (B&O Trail).

What does it cost to join in? Nothing – it’s free! but please register before your first run. Only ever register with parkrun once. Don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode If you forget it, you won’t get a time.

How fast do I have to be? We all run for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!

In the two years that parkrun has been in operation, events have also included “parkun tourists,” not only from elsewhere in the US, but also from Europe and Africa. The following statistics are featured on the event’s webpage:

Number of events: 99
Number of runners: 497
Number of runs: 3,111
Number of personal bests: 565
Average number of runners per week: 31.4
Biggest attendance: 87
Total hours run: 81 days, 10 hours, 27 minutes, 27 seconds
Total distance run: 15,555 kilometers

The 100th event will take place this Saturday, January 26.

And, as it turns out, Mansfield, Ohio is not the only Mansfield with a parkrun. Here is a tweeted photo from Mansfield’s sister city in England:

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